Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program

The Gastroenterology Fellowship Program at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is known for its distinguished history of training skilled physicians who excel both in clinical practice and academic gastroenterology. Over the years, the program has produced more than 120 graduates who are now influential in various aspects of the field across the United States and internationally. This fellowship, fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), provides a robust foundation in gastroenterology and hepatology.

As a major academic medical center and the largest research entity in the Milwaukee metropolitan area, MCW offers an environment conducive to advanced medical training. The program is affiliated with several prestigious hospitals, providing a comprehensive experience in patient care, research, and various gastroenterological procedures.

Educational Tracks

The MCW Gastroenterology Fellowship Program offers two primary tracks for fellows: the Clinical Track and the Academic Clinical Investigator Track. The Clinical Track is designed for those seeking to gain in-depth skills in gastroenterology while the Academic Track, which is NIH-sponsored, is oriented towards individuals interested in research within the field.

Within both tracks, fellows will be involved in gastroenterological consultations, hands-on GI procedures, and direct patient care at key training sites, including Froedtert Hospital, Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center, and St. Joseph’s Hospital in Milwaukee. Significant collaboration with the Departments of Radiology, Surgery, and Pathology enhances the educational experience, especially for the Academic Track fellows, who will receive specialized training in advanced research techniques.

Curriculum and Clinical Experience

The fellowship lasts for three years and is structured to include comprehensive clinical training alongside educational responsibilities. In both tracks, fellows participate in activities that encompass inpatient consultations, outpatient care, and continuous clinical responsibility. Specific rotations at Froedtert Hospital allow fellows to manage diverse cases, including transplant evaluations and procedures, as they work closely with experienced faculty members.

Training at Froedtert Hospital includes exposure to a wide array of gastroenterological conditions, procedural skills like endoscopy, and management of complex cases involving multidisciplinary teams, which fosters a well-rounded clinical education.

Research Training

Research is a significant component of the fellowship. All fellows engage in research projects tailored to their interests, often facilitated by faculty mentorship. The structured timeline allows clinical fellows to allocate approximately six months dedicated to research throughout their training in collaboration with active faculty members. This commitment to research not only enriches the fellows' experience but also contributes to the advancement of knowledge in gastroenterology.

Conferences and Seminars

The fellowship program emphasizes continuous education through regular conferences such as GI Clinical Conferences, where fellows discuss complex cases and collaborate with faculty and staff from associated departments. Additional activities include Academic Conferences focused on core gastroenterology topics and partaking in national meetings such as Digestive Disease Week or AASLD meetings, which fellows can attend to enhance their professional development.

Application Process

To apply for the MCW Gastroenterology Fellowship, applicants must provide their USMLE transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and CVs through the ERAS system. Preference is given to applicants indicating their interest track, either Clinical or Academic, which aids in matching the right candidates with the appropriate training environments. International Medical Graduates are supported, as the program sponsors J-1 research visas and H-1B work visas for qualified candidates.

Competitiveness and Selection Criteria

The fellowship is highly competitive, with numerous applications received each year. Candidates are selected based on academic excellence, previous experience, and a demonstrated interest in gastroenterology. The program seeks to cultivate diverse backgrounds and perspectives among its fellows, indicating an emphasis on equality and inclusion in candidate selection.

Benefits and Support

Fellows in the program receive comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, vacation, and sick leave, alongside professional development opportunities. The support extends to academic pursuits, allowing fellows to engage in research and leadership roles within the hospital system.

The Medical College of Wisconsin and its affiliated hospitals provide a unique environment for emergent and continuing education. Overall, this fellowship aims to develop prospective gastroenterologists who will significantly contribute to the medical field, equipped with both clinical acumen and a spirit of inquiry essential for lifelong learning.